Flooded-out school pupils find new home at college

Sonja Astbury

A flooded out school has gained a temporary new home at a county college.

Severe flooding forced St Michael’s CE Primary, near Garstang, out of its premises before Christmas and classes have since been held at Great Eccleston Free Methodist Church and Turnover Hall Farm Caravan Park.

It’s thought that work to repair the Hall Lane building will take at least another four months to complete.

Now, though, work is underway to create a temporary school in portable units at Myerscough College’s nearby Bilsborrow campus.

Headteacher Cathy Brough said: “After extensive research, it was decided that our temporary buildings will be sited within the grounds of Myerscough College, to house our school until Easter.

“I am very grateful to the staff of Myerscough for their co-operation and support, and to other local people who have made generous offers to help with a site.”

Myerscough principal Ann Turner said: “We’ve offered to temporarily house the school whilst their original building is dried out and repaired.

“After consultation with contractors, loss adjusters, Lancashire County Council and the school we have agreed a suitable site within our grounds.

“This will allow the school to function as a unit, in a safe environment close to their home base.’’

The ground works on campus are already well underway.

The temporary units will have full services, including a car park school should begin teaching from Myerscough by the end of this month.

Schools minister Nick Gibb made a flying visit the school last week to see the flooding damage.